Applications Being Accepted for Esri's T3G Institute for Educators

Redlands, CaliforniaEsri has opened the application period for its fourth annual Teachers Teaching Teachers GIS (T3G) Institute, to be held at Esri headquarters in Redlands, California, June 17–22, 2012.

T3G Institute helps experienced GIS educators turbocharge their skills so they can assist teachers who are new to geospatial capabilities and concepts. Those teachers less experienced in GIS will then be able to present to their students the benefits of learning the technology, such as a broader understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects and the development of powerful, career-building skills.

"I participated in T3G in 2011 and would highly recommend it as a professional development experience in teaching GIS to diverse audiences and helping grow GIS in 4-H," said Megan C. Patent-Nygren, instructional designer, 4-H and Youth Development, University of Nebraska, Lincoln.

At the weeklong event, attendees experience the latest developments in GIS education and software. They expand their GIS skills in areas including spatial analysis, data management, and project workflow. T3G participants exchange ideas with peers, learn teaching strategies from top trainers, and develop lasting professional relationships.

"T3G is a unique professional development experience," said Laura Bowden, K–16 program coordinator in Esri Training Services. "Each year, we modify the material presented at the institute to include the latest GIS technology and trends. At the same time, we model the instructional strategies and core tenets of professional development that are consistent over time. These form a foundation of best practices for teaching with GIS, even as the technology advances."

T3G 2012 will be funded in part by the National Geospatial Technology Center of Excellence (GeoTech Center), an organization that supports GIS learning initiatives among the higher-education community.

Additional information, including the application, can be found on the Esri T3G Institute website at edcommunity.esri.com/t3g. Applications are due by November 30, 2011, and invitations will be sent by December 20. Esri will select up to 30 participants from the applicant pool.